2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited Road Test

Looking for a modern family sedan which offers as much technology as it does performance? The 2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited may be just what you need.

Hyundai revamped the Sonata with its ‘Fluidic Design’ language and though the car has been around for some time, it still manages to grab more than its fair share of eyeballs with its unique, sharp and purposeful styling. The swooping front grille drenched in chrome is a nice way to start off for sure. The swept-back headlights and flowing lines accentuate the focus on styling while also translating to generous passenger room. The coupe-like roofline further adds that dynamic element to the design while not compromising on rear space. Wraparound tail lights complete the business suit look and mask the rather large trunk well.

Inside, the 2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited offers ample occupant room with a good amount of head and leg room front and rear. The smart dashboard and center console offer just the right amount of buttons and knobs to make life easy without lending it a cluttered appearance. Leather wrapped seats are not just comfortable but add an air of quality to the cabin. Hyundai’s are well-known for their immaculate cabin finish and the Sonata is no exception, even taking it a step further with its contemporary layout. The rear seat is also very comfortable. The front and rear seats are heated and the automatic dual temperature controls make life easier for all passengers. Add the Technology Package (+$3,000) and you also get a panoramic sunroof with tilt-and-slide, navigation system with 8-inch screen, HID Xenon headlights, LED tail lights, Infinity premium audio and 18-inch wheels.

On the safety front, the 2014 Sonata brings a comprehensive pack to ensure maximum occupant protection. All-wheel disc brakes are supported with ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and Brake Assist. Stability and traction control together with active headrests, six airbags and occupant classification system help matters further in an emergency. You also have blind-spot mirrors to facilitate easier lane-changing.

What really makes the 2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited go is the 2.4L motor with Gasoline Direct Injection. With 198 hp on tap (190 hp in states with California emission regulations), it can really go effortlessly and remain at highway cruising speeds easily. The available 185 kb-ft of torque means that overtaking is a breeze. The high speed stability is good and the car can handle its fair share of undulations even when you run out of smooth tarmac. A sub-8 second run to 60 is good and it keeps going without a complaint.

The Hyundai Sonata warranty doesn’t leave much to worry about. You get 5 years or 60,000 miles of basic warranty and roadside assistance, with additional drivetrain and corrosion warranty.

The 2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited is a respectable car with loads of equipment and quite a few customization options. You get a powerful yet efficient engine and good ride quality, safety features and practical flexibility.

Charlie is Roadfly’s founder and publisher, and was taught to drive by his father in a 1974 Porsche 914. That made poor Charlie a Porsche fanboy for life, and after driving a 911SC at 16, he bought and campaigned a variety of 944s at racetracks up and down the East Coast, earning awards and track records in his twenties.
Charlie never really got over the car bug, and after a career in real estate development he founded the Internet media firm that became Roadfly. Charlie lives in McLean, VA with his wife and two daughters, and between the demands of family and business doesn’t have much time to play with cars anymore, excluding the machinery we review.